The “DInGO”, Dynamic Image Gunsight Optic now beginning testing, it is the next generation of battle field optics that will empower US servicemen to hit enemy targets from over two times the current distance. If the prototypes stand up to what the DOD science types are hoping for. The goal of the DInGO program is to make sure that the average Soldier can hit enemy fighters at ranges nearing 600 meters without range estimates or crosswind compensation.
Lockheed Martin officials are building technology into the prototypes that they hope will eliminate the need for training to learn to make these calculations. “The device has a small laser that helps the operator make aim-point corrections,” said John Wojnar, the director of laser and sensor systems business development for Lockheed’s Mission Systems and Sensors.
DARPA awarded a $3.7 million contact to build 16 DInGO prototypes for testing. The current unit weights about a pound and is 5 inches long, three inches wide and three inches high. It is equipped with a digital micro display that is found in the cell phone industry. DInGO is based on Lockheed’s Advanced Sighting System (One-Shot) that was developed for the sniper community. The One-shot uses sensors to make measurements at several points along a bullets trajectory to the target.
The devices offers a 8 power digital zoom that allows the war fighter to quickly change ranges to engage multiple targets from 300 to 600 meters. The final version of the DInGO is supposed to run for eight hours on two AA batteries. If all tests go well, the new optic could be ready for servicemen to mount on the standard Picatinny rail system of their weapons by 2014. At a Cost per unit of $1000 each.
Additionally the unit would allow for a surveillance mode that would allow the operator to take a digital photo of a target to send via network or store in memory. The unit will also feature a training mode to allow the shooter to practice in a virtual setting.
Sources: Military.com, DARPA